In a raw and revealing moment, NFL legend John Elway has pulled back the curtain on one of the most pivotal decisions of his executive career - passing on quarterback Josh Allen in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Speaking candidly on Shannon Sharpe's Club Shay Shay podcast, Elway admitted he personally liked Allen but was unable to convince his coaching staff to select the quarterback, a decision that continues to weigh heavily on his professional legacy.

Elway's stunning confession reveals he actively wanted to draft Allen but faced internal resistance. 'I liked him, but I couldn't get the buy-in from the coaching staff,' Elway told Sharpe. 'My one regret is that I didn't just overrule everybody and say, "We're taking him."'

At the time, the Denver Broncos held the No. 5 overall pick and selected defensive end/outside linebacker Bradley Chubb instead. Chubb has since earned two Pro Bowl selections with the team. Allen, meanwhile, was taken just two picks later by the Buffalo Bills at No. 7 and has developed into a franchise quarterback.

The timing of Elway's revelation is notable, coming as he promotes a documentary and as the Broncos prepare for the playoffs with second-year quarterback Bo Nix. Head coach Vance Joseph was leading the team during the 2018 draft, and Elway's comments suggest significant strategic disagreements within the organization's leadership.

Now, as the Broncos sit at an impressive 13-3 record and prepare to host the Los Angeles Chargers in a potential AFC No. 1 seed clinching game, Elway's reflection serves as a poignant reminder of the high-stakes decision-making in professional sports.

While the missed opportunity with Allen remains a source of professional regret, Elway's willingness to publicly acknowledge his second-guessing demonstrates the vulnerability and self-reflection required of true leadership in competitive environments.